Front cover:"The Carpeted Road" by Faig Gambarov
(1968- ) oil on canvas, 1997. The artist says: "I am trying
to transfer my love for the city in which I was born and raised.
The charm of the 'Inner City' (Ichari Shahar) is my inspiration
as it has stood the test of centuries. As a painter, I exist
between the old and the contemporary. I want to make a revolution
with my brush and palette. Studio: (99-412) 76-26-66; Home: 32-93-30.

Back cover: The doors and entrances of Baku's
residences, especially those dating to the Oil Baron period (1885-1920)
are rare works of art. It's rare to find two alike. They symbolize
Eastern affinity for ornament and intricacy.